India to roll out vehicle-to-vehicle technology by 2026

India is preparing to introduce Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V) communication technology nationwide by the end of 2026, marking a major shift in road safety management. The initiative, led by the Government of India, aims to reduce road accidents by enabling vehicles to communicate directly with each other without relying on mobile or internet networks.

How vehicle-to-vehicle technology works

V2V technology allows vehicles to exchange signals in real time using a dedicated communication device similar to a SIM card installed inside vehicles. When two vehicles come dangerously close, the system automatically sends alerts to drivers. This communication works in all directions, offering 360-degree awareness of surrounding traffic conditions.

Preventing collisions and fog-related pileups

Officials believe the system will be particularly effective in preventing rear-end collisions involving stationary or parked vehicles. It is also expected to significantly reduce multi-vehicle pileups during dense fog, a frequent cause of fatal accidents during winter months, when visibility drops sharply and human reaction time becomes critical.

Government roadmap and safety integration

Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari said the proposal was discussed during the annual meeting with state transport ministers. The technology will initially be mandated for new vehicles, followed by phased adoption across existing fleets. The V2V system will also function in coordination with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), aligning sensor-based technologies with network-free communication.

Imporatnt Facts for Exams

• Vehicle-to-Vehicle technology enables direct communication without internet networks.
• It is aimed at reducing fog-related pileups and rear-end collisions.
• The estimated project cost is around ₹5,000 crore.
• Implementation is planned through phased notification by end-2026.

Cost, global context and additional measures

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways estimates the total project cost at about ₹5,000 crore, with consumers expected to bear part of the expense, though pricing details are yet to be finalised. Ministry secretary described the initiative as a major road safety milestone, noting that only a few countries globally have adopted similar systems. Alongside V2V, the government is also strengthening the Bus Body Code and mandating additional safety features such as fire extinguishers, driver drowsiness detection systems and emergency hammers in buses.